Gorgon's head care guide
Euphorbia gorgonis
Also known as: Euphorbia gorgonis, Konrinzai
Pets and children
Considered toxic
The white latex from damaged arms or body strongly irritates skin and eyes and causes mouth inflammation or vomiting if eaten; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian or doctor if swallowed.
How often to water Gorgon's head
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 10 days
- Usually treated as a summer grower, most active in spring and early fall: water two or three days after the soil dries through as a guide, lightly in the evening in midsummer.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 14 days
- Stretch the interval as it cools, to about a week or more after the soil dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every month
- Nearly dry: about once a month, lightly moisten around the base as a guide; wrinkled arms plump up again in spring.
Light and placement for Gorgon's head
A medusoid spurge with arms radiating from a central body: a sunny, airy spot as a guide, since low light draws the arms out for good; in midsummer give about 30% shade or morning sun only, out of rain.
Overwintering Gorgon's head
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
Keep it above about 5°C: bring it to a sunny window when nights reach around 8°C and rest it dry; old arms may die back in winter, but a firm center generally sprouts again in spring.
Fertilizing and repotting Gorgon's head
Fertilizer
Feed sparingly: diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month in April to June and in September, none in midsummer or winter, as too much makes long arms and spoils the flat shape.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Gorgon's head
- In low light the arms grow long and lanky and hide the central body.
- Too much water in midsummer heat rots it from the center.
- Watered at a cold window in winter, the roots are damaged.
Tips for growing Gorgon's head
- It makes a thick taproot, so a fairly deep pot and gritty mix suit it.
- Water the soil at the base rather than letting it pool in the crown.
- Repot in warm spring weather and wait a few days before watering.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
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